Convergencies

I want to start out by stating that I'm not an avid fan of reading, so it took a while before I finally read the chapters. I will admit it was pretty basic and simple and i can agree with the various methods used to convey a single message as seen by using a glass shoe or scrabble pieces to ask for someone's hand in marriage as opposed to the tradition "Will you marry me?" I write in various methods for various reasons. I traditionally have a set message that I convey using various methods and mediums. For example, currently I am helping my friends promote a mixtape that we've completed together. This means that there is only one message, which is that the mixtape drops on February 20. The means I use are word of mouth, fliers that I post around campus, and such blogging sites such as this. By using these various mediums I can convey my simple message to various people. As smart as many of us are, we fail to realize we use different forms of mediums and methods traditionally to convey a simple message, such as saying hello to someone through a text message, but then having that person call to say hello as a response. Im not saying the message can't change, but think about it, there are so many ways nowadays just to say hi, through text, im, email, by phone call, and even in person. How many methods do you use daily? Words from an Average Joe.

CoNvErGeNcEs

After dreading and thinking about reading the boring convergences book, i actually sat down and put sometime into it. After all it wasn't so bad, i found many interesting facts about writing. I use to think writing was just some assignment to do because your teachers wanted to keep you occupied. but convergences made me look even deeper into the writing element. My perspective has change from reading this. Now i look at writing as expressing deep feelings ,thoughts different ideas, and meanings or a message that you cant express when comminucating with another person. Actually without writing many key inventions in the world today wouldn't haven't even been invented. Many people can learn from reading this. A part that caught my attention is the purpose of writing or composing something. It makes you think what is the actual purpose of you writing something and when writing it the purpose is to reach the goal and having a great story or play so that everyone would like it. If you write or compose a play without a purpose, then its not going to get far and not get the responses that you wanted.
Also when reading the Joan Didion piece it was ok. I had some positive and negatives about it. It was good how she really like and enjoyed life and her passion for writing and how she observed people. i can really relate to her when it comes to observing people because i been threw so much that where ever i go i observe the people and my surroundings to make sure everything is well and fine. Overall she made good points but you can tell that she takes writing very seriously and seems that she really dont have a social life. After reading these things i learned so much and clearly make me look at things more differently.

"Why I Write" Overlook

I liked this article because of how the author described her life reaching the conclusion of herself, noticing that she's a writer. Not a great one, neither a bad one.

Like some of us…or perhaps most of us (who knows), she shows to us how she's like us in college: struggling with school, keeping concentration…because we look around ourselves in inspiration about the world around us, instead of our work, interested in things that are much more alive than some school work.

She also talks about how the structure of a sentence can shape the message to the reader. And that's very true; as a writer, I can connect to what she's describing to us in this article. With how you word the sentence, can make a dramatic change in how the reader will look upon it as.

Near the end of this article, when she talks about the 'Play It As It Lays' novel she was writing...I gotta say, I was lost about where she was going with it at first, with all those different ideas about her story popping up at random.

…But it seems to clear up in my head now.

When she started writing the story, she had only two pictures in her head, and she had to do speed writing with it, making it quickly and richened. As she starts taking us more into the story, she adds more and more into the description of where we were guiding to. She didn’t know where was heading off to; she just…let go. She would go on, talking about this woman, playing in her head as her imagination grew, taking the story along with her for the ride, coming to life, as her questions about this person grew more and more, building the story around this small startup from where she was not long ago.

A very good way to start where your story has barely anywhere to go.


…And that’s all I have to say. I’m not gonna lie, I was bored with it at times, but when I actually concentrated on ‘soaking in the knowledge’, it was interesting to me, as a writer, to read about.

Convergences/Didion

Reading Convergences turned out better than I thought it would. I was pleasantly surprised that it is semi-interesting. I can lose focus easily, and the pictures help. Not to say that I don't like reading--I mean, I am thinking about being a Language Arts teacher--it's just that I am a visual person, and sometimes, like it has been said before, a picture is worth a thousand words. Also, I'm very fond of the examples they use to make connections. I am able to relate well to this book.

As for the Joan Didion piece, I felt like she kind of said more than she needed to say. I like things that get straight to the point, or else I lose interest. I do admire her love for life and writing, though. It sounds like she's very detail-oriented and can vividly remember and recall the experiences in her life that have shaped her into the all the more wise person and writer she is today. I also picked up on that she loves to observe people. She's a people watcher as I would say. That is very evident in her writing. I also like the fact that she's basically saying that you evolve as a writer as you go on in life.

Convergences Intro.

The convergences text was dull at times, but I did pick out some very useful and descriptive material. The key terms that took me (and quite a few others) were the message, method, and medium.

As writers I think we often forget that our material should have a message to it. I personally get stuck dancing around a topic and struggle to get near the point I should have been making all along. The most important case is if we are citing an authors work, or trying to dissect what their message was. Being clear about the message we are trying to convey is crucial to the readers understanding of the text.

I believe that a writers method is what truly separates the good writers from the great writers. Countless times I have read an authors work and been amazed at their ability to tell a story in the way that they did. Its the dialect that grabs certain readers and makes the work special. The formality will reach one audience or another, and if your really good it will hit a very wide audience. This is clear in photography, film, music... along with other various art forms. It is just amazing how many ways there is to tell a story from an artists point of view.

It's difficult for me to talk about the medium. A medium can involve so many different things. What I took from the reading was that my medium as a musician is my guitar. It is my physical instrument that helps me convey a message. It joins together your method and message and turns it into a song, a form, an image- It defines how you complete your work and how you express it. Overall, convergences wasn't so dull after all.

Convergences & why i write

I am very impressed with the convergence book. When we were first told that it was the assigned reading I was kind of upset because I thought it was going to be another boring book. But I was definitely wrong this book is kind of interesting. I was also impressed how straight forward it was. This book gets right down to the point. I think we all have something to learn from the book. It challenges us to think about what we are reading and and to truly analyze it. It also encourages us to think critically about music, media, and advertisements and to try to figure out what they are saying. How they are saying it and why it is delivered in a certain way. These can be very useful tools to have not only in college but in the workplace as well. Employers are always looking for people who can think critically and really analyze a situation. So over all I think this book is going to be really useful.
I also read the short story why i write. It was interesting and made me think. I never really thought of writing as having to do with the temporal and less with abstract ideas. Thats probably not what the story was suppose to make us think about but I became fixated on that idea as I read the rest of the story. I agree with that idea but I also disagree. Most storys deal with concrete examples so they are not abstract. But if a story has some sort of moral like freedom for example it then is dealing with an abstract idea because freedom is not tangible. Overall I thought it was a good story.

Convergences Introduction

So I was hesitant to start reading "Convergences". I thought this was going to be another boring English book that I would be forced to read. To my surprise I was actually intrigued by what the book had to say. I liked how it jumped right in and got to the point.

The way the three perspectives (message, method, and medium) were broken down helped me a lot to understand each one. Also, it was much easier to understand simply because each one was broken down and not all compiled into one part.

I related what was being said in the book back to music, because that is such a big part of my life. Like when the book talked about "message". Obviously when a song is written it has a message to it. Whether it be something personal to the person writing the song or if its just a general message for everyone to think about or enjoy. But also I believe in music a lot of times there isn't just one message and I know this is true too for books. I think a lot of the time the message is left up in the air for the reader or listener to decide for themselves. The message/meaning to the listener may be completely different than the message/meaning to the person who actually wrote the song.

I could relate easily when on pg. 4 the book mentioned when trying to identify the message to be careful not to just identify the subject or theme. That is something I hear a lot when someone may ask about a movie. Someone usually says "oh its about a girl and boy falling in love" or "this movie is a revenge story." They never really say what its really about unless you actually ask.

To me, the most interesting part of the reading was the part about "method", because its so true that artists, photographers, musicians, etc. really think about and take the time to make sure their "method" of showing their message is the most effective it can be. Once again, going back to music, I think most song writers are constantly thinking of ways to say things that have already been said. At least I know for me I always become frustrated because I can never think of a new way to say something or write a guitar part that is innovative to the style of music I'm playing. There is so much music out in the world so of course the same thing has been said the 1000 different ways already. This is when "method" comes in. The way a songwriter may say something that someone else has already said can make it more or less effective. I think good lyricists say things in a symbolic manner rather than coming out and saying them straight forward.

The section with the different ways of asking "Will you marry me?" were definitely interesting as well. Especially the guy who mowed into a whole acre of farm land and flew his girlfriend across it. I would never think of that haha. That right there should be enough to know that this guy is definitely in love.

convergences

In convergences I liked how they directly jumped into the books contents right away in the introduction. They immediately dissected how we read, understand, and respond to material that we read and see. It puts so much more into our opinions of things. A lot of the time we can form a response to a piece of material without actually knowing why we have that opinion, and we have nothing to back it up. This first section of convergences really made me think about my responses to things I view. I enjoyed a lot of the books set up and approach to the subject at hand. One of the things I liked was how they give examples of material and directly point out the process that was taken in each to prove their point. I also like how the book is generally set up, divided into sections to overall evaluate how we respond to things. I really feel like it challenges us to to put thought into things that we normally wouldn’t have given much acknowledgment to. In general I have a pretty good first impression of this book. I think it is really going to benefit how I perceive all sorts of things like books, photographs, or a movie. In the long run I really think it will help us as college students and adults in improving our reasoning behind our opinions and becoming more knowledgeable in the things that we write and the things that we respond to.

writing process

everyone enjoys writing and speaking of things that directly apply to them, the things that they feel strongly about, have very much knowledge of, and those things they feel no one else can showdow. hence, i am one of those people. i love writing about topics i am strong in. im good at making judgement and inferences when needed but im also good at reading for what it (a topic) is.i also know how to be successful at writing on topics im not so strong in.
most of us have 'outlines', 'forums' or other types of things we were once taught on how to be 'successful' writers. i feel that being a 'successful' writer all depends on what your measure of 'success' really is. i was taught in highschool to be sure to answer the questions asked of you, make sure you have a rough draft first, and then a final copy, to be 'professional' when writing, so on and so fourth. i do believe in those things, but i dont believe those are the things which make you a 'successful' writer. i believe that when you write, you write from your heart, the feelings that are deep down, and those that dont get talked about too often. i believe you should explore who you are as a person, as a writer. when most people are required to write something they hate it because they have no connetion at all with what the topic or subject is, or so they think. most of us are stuck on writing the 'politically correct' way, the way we've been taught for so many years. but in truth if you can look deep enough, far enough, you can find a relation. its all about being open with yourself and who you are as a person. dont be afraid to write your true feelings on something, because of how you think your professor, or colleagues will view you, because only the truth is worth reading.
so this goes to say (before i get waaaaay off topic :-) ) that for myself personally, i dont feel i have a certain writing syle, or 'format', i just write from the heart and how i really feel about things im given to write. yes, i do include the facts about the topic and its not to say i dont do reasearch for that topic, but i also go beyond what i read about a subject, i explore the meaning. for me i write what i think and make the best of it.

Blog for FRIDAY

Just a reminder:

Everyone is required to blog 250 words on this week's readings for tomorrow.

Kudos to those of you who have already posted. The posts thus far are decent examples of what I'm looking for. I'd also like to see some comments on the Didion piece.

See the first blog post for specific instructions.

See you all tomorrow!

Phil

Convergences

The intro was pretty much straightforward. I have had many times in my life where the meaning of the text was not very clear and u had to basically disect the text to understand. After reading the method section, I felt more strongly about how things should be said. Two words can have the same meaning but if you say it differently it can be taken in various ways. Medium is important because it can give you an option of how you will like to experience the message. Whether it be through a book, an audio tape of a book, or a movie. I personally like to watch a movie instead because if the piece is boring, it is easier for me to watch a boring movie than read a boring book lol.

Audience is very essential and so is advertising. For example if I had a CD that I wanted to sell, I would advertise it on music and entertainment channels such as MTV and VH1. I wouldnt advertise on a channel such as A&E or USA because most likely my audience will be youth and young adults. That is why most companies advertise during the Super Bowl because millions of people are watching.

My reaction to Convergences p.2-24

Well, ill first start out by picking out the parts of the assigned reading that I did not agree with. On page 8 of Convergences it mentions that most writers think the composition of their work is more important than anything else. I don’t think that makes sense because no matter how well its put together if what the writer is saying isn’t interesting or doesn’t make sense than the piece of writing is no good. The writer’s message needs to be engaging. If the composition is poor, but the message is clearly presented that is a different story. Also, on page 9 it talks about how an outline is a key factor in writing. I don’t think they should have put that in the book because like we talked about on Wednesday, not everyone makes outlines and everyones writing process is different.

I liked when the book was talking about messages vs. themes. I think that the majority of people mistake the two words. When someone reads an essay or article and want to get the main idea they’ll usually just look for the theme, and rest on that. They won’t dig deeper into the work. Writing and reading writing are very complex. Its not always just about what you see on the surface . To truly understand writing you need to pick it apart, it has many layers and to truly understand you have to analyze each layer. I thought the whole “Marry Me” section was very effective to help understand the differences in the message, method, and medium.

Convergences

The introduction to the text seemed fairly common. I summed up most parts of the book itself and gave us a brief introduction to certain aspects of reading. The ideas it proposed were enlightening; it stated that we are constantly reading weather we are aware of it or not. It explains to us several different ways how reading and writing are used for situations other then just words. We read into paintings a movies as well.

When we read, we should read more then just the words. We should read into what the author is trying to say to us (the point he is trying to make). The more we read into things such as paintings, the more that will be revealed to us about not only the painting but this artists himself. I enjoyed how the book describes all the different ways writers and painters try to get their meaning across to us and how much time and effort it takes. That even though something may seem simple, it is in fact very complex.

The book helps us to understand the point it is trying to get across as well, by giving examples. However, it tells us that when we see a picture in a book, our reaction to it is different then if we saw it personally. Like the Mona Lisa painting; the picture is in the book but the feeling that we get when we see it is immensely different then if we went and saw the painting for ourselves. That can be said for many instances, seeing a picture of a beautiful vacation spot is not the same as being there.

Writing Process

When i write i do have a process i go through. It changes a little every time just depending what i write on but for the most part it stays the same. I will sit down and write what i could write about in each paragraph and than i would probably start writing my rough draft. I don't really have a outline i do. After i start on my rough copy i will have someone check it and have them fix somethings. I like when other people check my work because its hard for you to criticize your own work. I Than began typing my final copy once you get to this point its kind of easy. If you are siting something in your work that's were it gets tough and my weakest point. I like to write about how something effects me or how i feel about something rather than what other people think that how they feel. Its so much easier to get your thoughts and how you want them rather than someone Else's. Writing could take a while depending on what you write about but once i get on something i could just go and write about it until i have nothing else to write. Writing is really not fun for me but it is something in life you have to do and your not going to die from it but the process i take is not hard and it makes it a lot easier.

Response: My Writing Processes

For the majority of the papers I write, I don't make a proper outline with roman numerals, etc. Instead, right before I start writing, I jot down bullet points of what I want to express. Not in any particular order...just what comes to mind. If the assignment is on something I know little to none about, I research the subject, and sometimes if I can, I talk to people in that field of expertise. Then, I give myself the green light to start writing. I usually write in the order of intro paragraph, 3-5 body paragraphs, and a conclusion (conclusions are the hardest part to write, in my opinion). Honestly, most of the time, I make one draft, and just keep hacking at it until I'm satisfied (or until I run out of time because I've procrastinated).

My favorite kind of writing is when you are asked to write about something you've experienced. That comes the easiest for me..I don't get writer's block..and the paper sounds like I actually wrote it. In those cases, I do no pre-writing.

The Writing Process Of Mine

When it comes down to my writing process, sometimes I use some form of a brainstorm bubble, and a outline. These steps I would incorporate into my ‘hard assignments’ for school, as well as at times using it in my own creative writing.

The brainstorm, I just think as much as I can about what I want my paper to talk about. It helps me at times to discovering other ideas that I can add onto the paper.

After draining as much as I could out of my head, I would consider creating a rough version of a outline. As I said, I don’t always worry about how much I have for which part I have, but enough for me to get underway, and start writing.

I’ll usually do the introduction paragraph first, because it helps out with the majority of the format for the paper, plus it helps you think about where you want to go with this paper. With that, I would work on at least fragments on the paragraphs that support my paper, and in the mist of the craziness, work on a conclusion (as long as the ideas I have are solid for me to create one).

…And that’s a rough idea of what my writing process is like. It isn’t the same all the time, but it is, for the most part.

Writing Process

I actually do not have a certain writng process. Not very structured at all lol. I think about the topic. It's hard if the topic is something I do not lyk, and if it's something I like it will be easy. I think about the audience. I will write about what I think they would wanna get out of it. I will first introduce the topic then state what my purpose of the paper is. Then I will put my ideas into the body. Finally my conclusion Will restate the purpose of the paper is.

A simple process.

Though my writing process varies from time to time, I think everyone starts off in the same general area. What am I writing about? This tends to be the first thing we ask ourselves. Personally, I scan my prompt (if there is one) and pull important points that may improve the structure of my writing piece. I sit, as I am now, and grab a thought. Perhaps a point that would introduce my thought to the reader- get them comfortable and warmed up to the idea. Its at this point were I release my hands and let them do the talking. After several paragraphs have been formed I read through what I have, checking for simple grammer mistakes and to make sure that my points are meshing and flowing together. In my opinion (seeing how this is a blog) I think most people, including myself, struggle with their writers voice. My writing process changed drastically when I began writing in the voice I would normally talk in. My points make more sense to the audience as well as making it clear to myself. Just because we write it doesn't mean that we have to sound extremely "formal" or "intellegent." Yes, we should revise and be thorough with our work, but it shouldn't clog our thoughts for our writing process. After I have written what I believe to be a sufficient amount, I read the whole essay and nit pick my thoughts and points. If the pieces fit at that point, its time to share it with another reader.

Before I Write...

Before writing a paper I always sit and think about the topic I write about. I come up with some good ideas and some bad. When I start to write a paper I tend to forget certain points I'm trying to make. Therefore, I always jot down ideas before I even start writing my rough draft. I come up with a thesis and my supporting ideas, then I decide what order I want to put them in. I feel that structure and content are equally important so I make an informal outline of what I am trying to say. I always right out my full introduction and conclusion first and then jot down some ideas in between. If I come up with a new idea while writing I make sure to add it in my introduction and conclusion. I try and stay on topic because sometimes when I'm writing without brainstorming before I tend to get a little off topic. Using keywords and phrases also helps. If I am writing a response to text I read I write down the main ideas of the text and sometimes quote things from the text that I read, it helps with my supporting ideas. I must gather all my thoughts before I write or I get very confused. If I want to use a certain word that I don't know how to spell I will look the word up before so I don't interrupt my train of thought. Even if I'm not too sure on a subject I'll make sure to research it just so I feel comfortable writing about it. After that, I revise all my ideas and if there's an idea that I decide doesn't work I will eliminate it. I'll try to memorize what my ideas were and the order so I don't get distracted and keep looking at my brainstorming sheet. Then, once I write my introduction it all comes to me and my paper just flows. I have tried other methods but I definetly feel this is the best method for me.

When writing a paper, i know the correct format is to outline first before starting a paper and create ideas but i usually tend to just start writing without going through the pre writing process. The reason of that being is because when i tend to just write, a lot of ideas flow through my head as i continue to write. When writing, i don't usually take any steps i just make sure it flows very well and that every paragraph corresponds with one another. When i tend to try to take steps and also think about different methods, i usually mess up on my paper and have to start all over. While writing after every sentence something unique comes to my head that i can say in the next sentence , and so on. That's why i choose this way of writing instead of taking steps. I know using steps works for a lot of people but it just dont agree well with me. I have tried it several times, and trust me the paper does not come out the way i would have wanted it to. Its probably because of the teaching i have had n the past weren't very well when it comes to writing. In that being i just stick to what i know best...!!!

Writing Process

I am not a good writer by any means. I am a bit childish with my writing so i use an outline to help me out. When using an outline I usually do research on the subject of the paper first. It gives me a good ideas as to what i am going to write about. While reading the research i write down certain points that relate to what i want to talk about, just on a piece of paper in any order. I take all of the points and begin to put them into an outline. At first the outlines are usually disorganized and sloppy but i move ideas around and eventually it comes together. When done with the outline i obviously write it proofread it and send it in. Personally it is the best and easiest way to write a paper.

I usually spend a few minutes thinking about what it is I want to speak about before I write. If I have to do any kind of research on a subject I like to do an outline first in order to get my facts and ideas in order. I sometimes I find it easier to brainstorm before I do my research in order to ensure I have all the the topics and points I would like to include. Throughout the writing process I find myself rereading and revising previous sentences and paragraphs in hopes of making the piece flow in a smooth continuous motion.
Once I feel comfortable with a rough draft I find it helpful to rewrite and proofread what I have written. I then like to have a peer read, edit and comment on what I have already written. After I have gotten feedback I then rewrite the work again and then do a final copy. I feel that the more steps that are utilized, the better chance you have of producing a satisfying result.

My Writing Process

Usually while writing, I try to find a topic of interest. I can't write a good paper if I don't like what I'm writing about, or have interest in the prompt. I get excited about a paper if I have a strong viewpoint on the topic. In High School I had a English teacher that drilled the writing process in our heads. It used to be a pain, but soon I learned to appreciate it. When I'm writing a paper, I first have to make some sort of web so I can get my thoughts organized. Then I have to write a complete sentence outline. That in my opinion is the hardest part while writing a paper. After the outline is complete it makes writing the paper very easy. I like to have structure and have my paper flow nicely. After I complete a rough draft, I start editing parts of it. Usually I change sentence order and elaborate more on my main points depending on what the prompt asks for. I think two rough drafts are enough, some teachers in High School went overboard and made us do up to four to five drafts, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but unnecessary in my opinion. The last thing in my process is proofreading. Grammar and spelling is not as important in my opinion, the content of your paper is more crucial. Before the due date, I read my paper backwards to find spelling and grammar mistakes. This is quite helpful because when you read your paper the way it's written your brain skips over some of the mistakes because of the flow.

How I Write

When I write the first thing that I do is come up with some sort of idea. From there I think about it and make sure it fits with what I am suppose to be writing about. If the idea fits then I just sit down and type about that thing. I do this in a very unstructured way. There is no outline or rough drafts, just what pops into my head. If I start to go off topic then I just delete what I wrote and then start over again. Once I feel that what I have wrote meets the requirements I am about done. The Only thing left to do is to read it over to make sure it sounds good and that I have not messed anything up. If I have messed anything up then I go back through and I make changes as needed. After that its off to the printers.

how regrets are made

The first step in my particular writing process is over-thinking. I will consider a subject, debating the finer points in my head, for so long that others will be finished typing before I reach for the keyboard. Next is typing the intended message, which includes many false starts, plenty of sentence deletion, and almost always some debate over whether I want to use "affect" or "effect" at some point. Then I do a quick bit of proofreading, decide what is wrong with what I have written (it is never in question that something must be wrong). The final step is to look at the clock, decide I don't want to waste any more time on the subject, and save the final version.

my writing style

Everybody has their own writing style. I myself have an informal way of approaching it. I personally do not set up an outline or any sort of structure to follow when writing. When writing a school paper about a specific topic I don't have a lot of knowledge of, I will research the topic in order to get correct information on it. I'll then refer back to where I got the information to make sure what I'm writing is correct. The only time I will somewhat set up a structure for what I'm writing is when I don't know a whole lot about the subject. However, if it is an opinion based paper I completely just go for it. When writing about my personal feelings and thoughts towards things I find it so easy to just write and write. I think it's so much easier and fun considering I already have all of the information I need and don't need to do any research. I do often get writing blocks when in comes to papers that require a lot of length. I sometimes get to my point too fast and find myself completely lost on what to write next. In those situations I tend to drag on so that the page requirement is met. When I'm finished with my paper I'll read over it and sometimes switch a few paragraphs or delete unnecessary things, but other than that I would say I have a pretty laid back approach to writing.

My Writing Process

When i write a paper i usually stick to the same process, i figure out what im going to write about first which is usually something i can relate to. then i start my paper but i just do the introductory paragraph, which is a couple of lines leading the reader to my main topic. normally after that i look up information on my topic, mainly online cause i hate the library. then i get writing on my paper. often i get stuck on how to word somethings cause i dont want to come across to the reader a certain way. i set my paper into paragraphs not the normal three paragraphs though, i may u four or five supporting paragraphs depending on how long the paper has to be or how much information i get on my topic. then after i finish up putting all of the information i feel is necessary for the paper i finish my paper off with a conclusion paragraph just like any regular paper. in a sense i guess you could say that i follow the basic steps of writing a paper but in the end so do a lot of people.

My Writing Process

When I'm writing a paper, I usually just get a general idea of what I want my point to be or where I want to go with the prompt that is given and "run with it". I've never been much of an outline type person. I always hated using note cards and all that junk. I like typing a few paragraphs and then go back and reading what I have written. I usually always have something I need to add or something I need to change when I go back and read through it again. I like having a "rough" idea written and then go back and edit. I think this is cause I am constantly coming up with ideas for my paper and coming up with ways to change and make my paper "better" as I am in the process of writing. After I'm done and have written the paper I go back again and change some things and add some ideas. I don't think this is the best way for me to write a paper and I am sure there are much better ways to type a paper, but it is what I am used to as of right now and this writing process works best for me.

The Scrutiny of One's Mind

My writing process is different from others, based on the fact that a majority of my writing is songwriting. The way I write when writing songs is that I listen to the melody, or the instrumental in most cases, and i writee lyrics based upon how the beat makes me feel or think. Normally once I start writing, I have to finish what I am working on that same day or else my thought process towards that specific subject for the song and my feels toward it at the moment will be forever lost. Traditionally I write when I can with whatever tools are at my disposal, meaning that sometimes I write songs on my phone. At other times I will write songs on pen and paper. The mood and my surroundings generally describe how I will write. My steps are simple, listen to the instrumental once or twice through to get a feel for it, create an idea for said track, create a hook or chorus (or in some cases a refrain), and finally I let the words within my mind flow freely onto the blank canvas to paint the picture within my own mind for others to see. Sometimes its easier then others, but you can't rush perfection. Words from an Average Joe.

what i do...

the first major step i take in writing is PROCRASTINATE as long as possible. then when i write all i do is write whatever comes to my mind right when it comes. i usually don't think about what i have said once it is written. kind of like it gets set in stone. i have never edited a paper before. i avoided writing 100% in high school. just like you said in class if someone doesn't care about what they are writing they just put any old crap down and say its fine i don't care anyway. so i really just put anything down. if i did care about what i was writing i would put down all my thoughts and then analyze them as i put them down and slightly edit to get my point across. though i have not truly developed a writing process yet i am sure i will as i progress farther in this class. though i know i will never pursue writing as a career or even a hobby i do hope to learn to find a way to write that is easy for me.

MY writing process

My process for writing is nt much or a "process" at all. When I am about to write things such as papers I let my ideas flow either through my fingers (typing), or through the pen to the paper. after I figured i ahv said all tht I need to say about tht said topic, I then read it over. I may move certain things around, edit things, and even look deeper into some subjects tht were brought up in the writing tht I may need to kno more about. The reason I do nt necessarily call this a process is bcuz the way I go about doing these steps changes almost every time I write. In some cases I may hav done the research on the topic before hand, this way when i do start writing it flows better. Usually i only do this when my writing has to be more structured as far as if i were writing a kind if research or arguing a point tht has to be supported by fact, nt my own opinion. Tht being said when I write about things more "freely" (things tht offer my opinion or input on situations) I jus let my thoughts flow out hw ever they come to mind. With some slight revisions on order and grammer after the piece is finished.

Thoughts on paper

Typically when I begin to write I sort of get together a few ideas in my head, I wouldn't necessarily call it an outline because there's no clear direction I want to go in other than what the introduction will be, the end for me comes about halfway through the actual writing. As I write i start with the most logical introduction to whatever I'll be writing about and put that down. Once i feel that there is a solid foundation to base the rest of my writing on i will move on from there and take my thoughts and write them down as i go along. Because of this though about halfway through i tend to stop writing and read what I've put down as a whole so that i can reorganize my thoughts again and continue towards the end of the writing. Usually by this time however the ending is pretty clear to me and the rest of what i write will actually support my end paragraph. Its funny because when i break down my writing style i start with a solid idea to base the writing piece on then move towards the end without actually knowing what I want the end to be, only when I get to a certain point do i create the necessary paragraphs and supporting ideas to build up towards my ending which usually ties in well with the introduction.

My writing process

Before I begin to write I think of certain aspects like, who is going to read it and why am I writing it in the first place. Once I get that out of the way I think of the topic in which I want to write about, and do a little research first so when I begin to write I actually know what I am talking about.

If I am writing just for the shear joy of writing I won't do much thinking. I'll sit at me computer and have at it. Where as, in a formal paper for school, I will do some research just to have a vague conception of what it is I am writing about and what effect if any, it will have on the audience. Once all that is done and the writing has only just begun, I will open my paper with the opening paragraph telling the reader what they will be reading. The spelling of the first draft is never the best because I will write in a fast effective way to get all the work done quickly. I will use acronyms, abbreviations, and some less conventional methods that we use when talking to friends online or through a text message just to save time. Once the entire paper is written I will go back through it all and correct all of the grammar and spelling mistakes I can find, reading through the paper several times forwards and back. That however is only the draft. Once I am sure all the mistakes I can find have been corrected I will read through my research again to make sure there is nothing more I wish to add that may help deliver my point easier.

All this adds up to the draft to send to the teacher to read through and mark any mistakes I may have missed as well as ideas that may help my paper even more.

My personal writing process

I don’t really have a specific writing process. I usually have a pretty good idea of what I’m writing about so ill just gather the thoughts in my head . Ill sit down and start writing. Ill always start out with the introduction and get the main jist of what im trying to say. I’ll usually write a few sentences or a paragraph and re read what I wrote to make sure its flowing. Or if I read over it will remind me of something else I want to put. On bigger papers like research papers or longer things I have to write I might make a short list of what I wanna say. Nothing big just little reminders. On papers that are opinion pieces or maybe a persuasive essay I tend to not make any notes. I think that just starting a piece of writing without any outline gives you more freedom to express your opinions that your feeling as your writing. I mean you can always go back and fix it!

bloggity blog blog

I sit here and debate the question at hand of pen vs. keyboard with man's best friend with one eye open.I collect my thoughts aloud as I watch the dancing flames of the fireplace here in my smoking jacket, chasing back the shadows with the occational poke of the pipe. The outside world of media mania is almost nonexistant as I glance out the window to watch snowfakes stick upon the glass. I find myself deep in the recesses of my mind, slightly disturbing the glass in hand as I allow the Merlot to breathe.
No bother placing anouther log on the fire,its time to lace my boats,scrape the car,battle the artic cold, and head to the campus library. I have to do some blog thing on the computer about how I prefer to document my ideas. I wonder what I should write...

Changes in writing

From the internet to paper there really isn't much of a change in writing that I have noticed. On paper I tend to be more grammatically correct like I am now. Where as online, in a blog or a comment to a friend I would be less specific in my grammar and spelling. Furthermore, writing something down on paper would take a bit longer then on the computer. The thought process would be the same however, on the computer it takes only the push of a button rather than writing out each letter. Also including our ever changing technologies, my mind may not the spelling of a fair amount of words but not all of them. Spell check makes writing go a lot faster with the use of spell check.

The Online Advantage

The act of writing with pencil and paper has become dull, boring, and it lacks certain advantages that online writing possesses. For instance, if I feel I need to make a bold statement, I can stress emphasis on the word or words that need it. Writing online or electronically allows you to become the writer and editor with tools such as spell check. Most of us have trouble writing on pencil and paper simply because we spend time criticizing our legibility, rather than focusing on our content. The internet along with writing programs allow us to type exactly what we feel. It gives us some internal security in knowing that we are not face to face with any specific person or persons. Writing online gives every person a voice that literally millions of people can read, comment, like, dislike- you get the picture. Electronic writing wins.

THIS WEEK - BLOG for FRIDAY

250 words - Didion and CON (2-24)

Writing: Electronic vs. Non-Electronic.

Electronic writing has made my typing skills better. Due to the invention of web social networks, such as twitter and facebook, I can now type faster than before. I am more confident in my typing skills. I do feel there is a difference between electronic writing and non electronic writing. I feel as though I do not have to be very formal when I am electronically writing. When I am writing on a piece of paper, I have to make sure every word is spelled correctly and used in the right context. I often find myself making the mistake of writing abbreviations, for example "idk" which is i don't know and "brb" which is be right back, when I am writing on paper. So electronic writing has had a positive and negative input on my writing skills.

Eletronic Vs Pencil and paper

I feel tht my writing does nt change drastically in regurards to me writing online and me writing using a pencil and paper. The only difference between the two is, when i am writing online I tend to shorten most words, and I also do nt use vowels in most words. Of course my grammar changes wen I am writing things such as papers or essays, and wen I write the rough drafts for these on to paper I tend to nt care as much if I make grammatical errors, simply bcuz I rely on the computer to fix the errors for me.Eletro I hav a very poetic type of writing and I also use metaphors comparing many things and try to find the deeper meaning behind them. I still keep a journal and I prefer writing the traditional way (pencil and paper) than online. Electronia writing allows others to view my thoughts and ideas in such a way tht they could judge what I type, as for myself writing with pen and paper, where nt most people would be able to see it at all.

The difference in writing

I believe that writing online is extremely different than writing on paper simply because the flow of ideas can come easier and you can clearly visualize what your writing on the screen rather than on paper. For me Writing on computer is also faster and more comfortable simply because i can have my laptop pretty much anywhere and whip it out to finish a quick writing assignment in the comfort of whatever area i happen to be in at the time. Writing on the computer also allows you to change your work easily and not have to white anything out with some form of corrective tape, so in turn it makes proof reading and correction easier where as sometimes on paper depending on what your writing medium was, changes can look sloppy and unorganized. When it comes to personal preference and style of writing I'd rather choose to write on a computer than on paper because what i do and say i can see and read out loud while i type it, however my style of writing doesn't change. What i mean is, if I'm writing a formal paper on the computer it will be the same style and attitude that i would compose on paper the only difference really in the situation is that I would complete it quicker on a computer.

blogging vs writing on paper

I haven't really done a lot of online writing or blogging. I used to use xanga in junior high but I used it as a diary. I didnt use it as a place to write about anything serious just what i did that day or how i felt about things. I use facebook now and i dont think that counts as online writing. Writing a few sentences in my status doesn't count as writing to me. I think typing things online is more informal than writing on a piece of paper. Writing online doesn't feel as tedious as using a pen and paper. plus typing for a long time doesnt hurt your hand like writing. Also, since technology has come so far and everyone uses computers now, it just feels more natural writing online.

Post 1

I personally only use Facebook as an online writing tools, so i am not caught up with technology. This is also my first blog that i have been a part of. So i have little experience in this field. Anyways i believe that if someone is writing something on Facebook that it would be much more personal and kind of laid back type of writing. While when I write on a piece of paper i am much more formal. Since i only write on Facebook it is a bit skewed, because on Facebook i only talk to my friends and family. People talk much more casual when talking to friends and family obviously because they are so close to one another. Usually when i write on paper it is only for assignments for class so that is why it is always so formal. So in my personal experiences i believe that writing on a piece of paper is much different then writing online.

Week 2: Pen & Paper vs Electronic Writing

Usually, when I have a writing assignment for school, I prefer to type out every aspect of it(rough drafts, final product). I feel like on paper my thoughts aren't as organized. There aren't any words crossed or scribbled out that distract me when I'm typing on Microsoft Word. Also, my big handwriting takes up a lot of space! So I'm wasting trees writing a paper in pen.
Now when I'm writing out a list or writing the occassional lyric to a song, I prefer to use a notebook and pencil for sure. In those cases I like to cross things out.

What does it say about writing to me?

It really depends on the type of writing you're doing.

Electronic VS Pen Writing

When it comes down to writing, the differences between tackling your need to write with a piece of paper and pen, is different than speeding down the road with a keyboard. The differences in the ways of your writing, however, are different in comparison to each other; some people can do better on a computer, while others do better with a pen.

Paper and pen: the tools we've use the most in school. You can write crazy without any boundaries. You can scratch out words, draw little designs on the side when you get bored, add in words, rip it apart, anything. The only downside is the time consuming process of doing this. Some may not mind it, but for me, I honestly don't want to re-write a page to two pages of work for a draft unless it's required.

On a computer, however, you can perhaps go a lot faster with typing your words. Sometimes, for me, I feel most comfortable with typing on computer, because it helps me literally write down what's in my head quickly, since I'm not too bad of a speedtyper when I need it. On the other hand, it loses that 'feel' of writing, the natural hard work, the relaxation of creating something.


So, as you can see, there are differences between using the computer, and using paper and pen. Each one of these mediums has its advantages and disadvantages. Everybody's strengths and weakness in writing lays between one or the other.

Dangers of writing

As a gamer, writing electronically includes dangers that aren't reflected when working with a pen and paper. Normally I try to obey the rules of the English language, but there are situations where shorthand is necessary. When you wish to reply to someone, and you have x amount of seconds until you are attacked by another player or an NPC, the advantages of proper punctuation are outweighed, and so the message suffers. Consider your favorite author and written work. Now, consider that writer having to complete their work in the path of an oncoming train. Variations would undoubtedly occur. Those variations would take away from the artistic value of the work, but the functionality added would be of immeasurable value.

Electronic mediums do have a reputation for taking away for the writer's mastery of language, but it is more likely that those who most frequently write electronically have little to no idea of the rules of grammar to begin with.

My writing changes drastically when i write on paper from when i am writing on the computer.When putting a post on facebook or instant messaging someone, i tend to use misspelled words alot. This is possibly because i get lazy alot and tend to not put in the effort in typing a long word when i can just make the word shorter. Also when typing on the computer i feel that i can be myself and sometimes i spell words the same way as i would say them as if i were holding a conversation. When i write on paper i make sure i always spell my words correctly and try to use the correct grammer . Basically because most of the time when i write a paper, it is mainly because i am getting a grade on it. Thats why i try to make sure everything is correct when writing a paper.

B.L.O.G! electronic vs paper

i never had a 'blog', to say the least but i have written in journals for self writing and for school entries. the first time i had auctually 'blogged' in a class i guess, would be my senior year in highschool. everyday we came to class the students had to pull out the journals and start writing, ten minutes non stop. at first i didnt like it because it hurt my hand! lol but i then went on and continued doin it, even after i graduated. it was a nice way to gather my thoughts and understand my self a bit better, i guess because the words were in front of my eyes and not jus thoughts. i could go back and refer to the things i did and how i felt.
i guess this class wont be so bad. since thats pretty much what im doing now.the only difference is its on a computer, pushing keys, and nt on paper writing with a pen. for the most part i like writing on the computer better because its faster to me and i feel i can be less formal. most of the times when i was assigned a 'work' in ighschool it was hand written and had to be turned in so grammar punctuation and all that good stuff had to be correct.and i knew there was someone, whetheritbe a teacher, or another student reading my wrk, there would be sumone expecting thingss from me. expecting me to be 'correct', whereas when i feel its just me i jus write what come to mind and how it gets there. i prefer being less formal when i write because most of the time im writing about the way i feel and its written how i talk. i knw its bad to write like this, in fact i hate it when others do it...(what a hipocrit, lol) well with everyday life. idk i guess i feel theres a time and place to be formal and less formal. if im writing for self then id rather write shorthand, if theres an assigment that requires correct grammar, punctuality, and spelling then i make those changes.

Writing online and writing with a pen and paper are very different. i along with everyone else has done both. i feel like when im talking with my friends online i write a lot different then i do in person with them and i feel that is how most people are as well, i mean no one is going to say brb in real life or ttyl or even lol. its just something everyone does online. if i were to write a note to someone with paper i probally would say some of the slang words i use online but not as much. also i wouldnt talk to an adult the same way i would talk to my friends online. for example i talk to my mom daily on facebook (yes my mom is my friend on Facebook), and i talk 100% differently to her then i do when i talk to my friends from back home, or if i write an email to a professer im not going to end the email with ttyl because most likely they wont understand what that means. were in a different generation now most people now communicate through texts or chats on facebook or myspace. adults dont understand the new lingo that we use today because its not the same as when they were kids our age and they're not used to the same sayings we use today. even though everything is online now doesnt mean that everyone uses the internet. but the lingo between parents and there children will never be the same as when they were kids.

Electronic Writing

When I'm writing informally online my style of writing changes. When I'm on facebook, twitter, myspace, etc... and I'm saying something to a friend or maybe posting a blog so my friends can read it, I use a lot of slang and use phrases that only people I know would understand. It just seems easier to me to make a point or get something across to friends by using certain slang and phrases.

Now when I write formally for school papers and things like that, I think I write the same as I would if I were using a pen and paper. I think this is cause I don't like using a pen and paper when writing. I like to use the computer. Its easier for me to type out something and get ideas than when I'm sitting at a desk with paper and a pen.

Writing Electronically

Writing electronically definatly changes the way that people write. People have a greater sense of freedom when they are behind a computer. They are more a little more liberal with what they say than if they were actually writing with a pen and paper. This is definatly the case with social networking sites like Facebook or Myspace. I have seen people getting into rediculous arguments that would have never happend if they had wrote it on paper or were talking about it in person. This is a direct result of them feeling a little more free with their words. So I would definatly agree that electronic writing changes the way we write.

Writing Electronically

I don't think my writing changes based on if I'm writing electronically or with a pen and paper. My viewpoints still stay the same, and what I want my writing to reflect still stays the same. I have blogged before, but I'm not a regular blogger. Occasionally I blog on Cavfanatic. I love talking about the Cavaliers and sharing my viewpoints on the team. I also use Facebook, Twitter, and AIM. My writing does change in the sense that when I write with a pen and a paper it is usually for a class and I have to use correct grammar and punctuation. The content in which I write also changes. When on Facebook and Twitter, I use abbreviations and slang. I don't think the way you write changes based on if your on the computer or using a pen and paper. The only thing that changes the way you write is the prompt or what you are writing about. Another factor is who your writing for and who your audience is. If it's for a professor your writing is mature and proper, but If your telling your friend a story on facebook, your writing is a lot laid back.

Electronic Writing Experience

The only electronic writing I do is texting, e-mails and Facebook. I text a lot every day because its easier than calling and you can text as many people as you want at the same time. Also, you can text while doing other things, and its kind of hard to have a conversation on the phone while doing other tasks. On Facebook, I use electronic writing by updating my status, writing on someone's wall or commenting on someone's activity on Facebook. Many people use facebook to send out event invitations, where they can talk about the event, like what it is, where its going to be, what time it is... ect. The only time I really use e-mail is for school. I communicate with my professors that way, and you can also communicate with other students that way. E-mail is the main source of communication at Kent State, so you have to know how to write an e-mail. I think that electronic communication is becoming pretty normal for everyone to do. In my opinion it will probably be the only source of communication eventually.

writing electronically

Using an electronic medium can change our writing style. When on websites like facebook or myspace we talk completely different than when writing for a class assignment. I wouldn't necessarily blame electronic mediums for our bad grammar when on the internet, but instead blame our casualness when talking to our friends over the internet. I think more mistakes can be made when writing by hand because you don't have the technology to tell you where you messed up. In the same sense writing by hand can be safer as far as saving your work. Overall I don't believe writing electronically effects what you are saying as much as we think. The topic and purpose of what you're writing is what really effects what is being said. You're not going to using the same style when writing to a friend as you will when writing a school paper. I personally am not bothered by either medium, it is all just a question of convenience.

Pen & Needles

Wit the advances of technology, we are ever moving farther and farther away from the basics of the pen and paper. While the advancements of technology are for the better of mankind, there are various drawbacks and flaws. One example would be that technology always has that possibility to crash, deleting and losing all information that was stored within it. Saving information can help, but with technology, there is always that risk of losing information. While using a pen and paper, you will always have said information (provided you don't lose it). My experience is that I write electronically to keep my ties together with those around me, and to keep informed on specific events or situations that are happening. I never use it for anything too serious though (with the exception of papers). Yes I write a lot (for both personal school and for my music), but at the end of the day you always want to have that carbon copy to be able to look and see that that's what you own. You have money don't you? How would you feel if you never got to see your money because everything was machine based? Would you still trust using computers instead of having the money in your hand? Words from an Average Joe...

Computer vs. Paper

When i write one the computer I dont take my time just becuase there is spell check and they underline what they think is not right. When you write on paper you slow down and make sure you are spelling and writing correctly. Its faster to write on the computer just because i have used a computer for a while and i can type faster than i write. I would rather type things than write them just becuase i don't have the best of hand writing. On the computer i try to short hand things becuase i am used to facebook and things like that. So i do have to take more time on the computer but i can write faster so it just makes it easier on the computer and i like to use it more.

It May or may not change your writing depending on the person and how often you do it. it would change in things such as text messages because we use words like LOL and SUP things like that. for me i still think i write differently on paper then i do on technology. its very easy for me too switch from proper writing to tech writing. the only real difference is big fancy words anyway.

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Electronic vs. organic pen-and-paper communication

What experience - if any - do you have with writing electronically? Have you ever blogged? Twitter? IM? Facebook? Email? Do you think your writing changes when you use an electronic medium instead of a pen and paper? If yes, why/how? If not, what do you think this says about writing?

Testing BLOG - first day in class